AB to Mate 200 question

I don’t know why you posted that. Twelve months in the deck department is the same as 360 days. My question is if you finish the Piney Point program and get an AB Special, why couldn’t you just go on for 200 ton Mate at that time? Assuming you can pass whatever test is required. Is there some disadvantage I’m not seeing? Is it easier or faster to advance as a Mate 200 than as an AB? Thanks.